How Much Does an Ignition Key Replacement Cost?

Losing your car keys could be a huge hassle. A replacement key is usually obtained by making an appointment with an auto locksmith or dealer.

Costs vary based on kind of key. Certain keys for cars are more affordable to replace than others. There are four types of ignition keys that include mechanical remote keyfob, remote, transponder and switchblade.

Mechanical Key

If your car was built prior to the 1990s, there is a high chance that you still have a mechanical key. These basic keys are made of steel with a head which is placed in the ignition and then turned to start the vehicle. They are simple to duplicate and don't contain any electronic components. If you already have a traditional, non-electronic key an auto locksmith could easily cut it and program it for a cost of less than $50.

In the 1990s, key fobs became widely used. They are designed to operate from a distance with the remote control instead of needing to insert the key into the ignition. These are much easier to duplicate and do not require any special tools to do so although they will cost more than traditional keys.

Transponder keys were introduced in 1995 and are equipped with an electronic chip that communicates with the immobilizer of the vehicle and ensures that only the right key is used to start the engine. Transponder keys are difficult to duplicate and typically cost more to have cut and programmed.

If you've experienced problems when your car starts it might be due to an ignition switch that is not working properly. This part will cost more than a standard one, however, it's worth the investment to ensure your vehicle is safe.

If the cylinder of your ignition lock has become stuck or cannot be placed into the ignition, gently jiggle the key. This could help release the lock wafers which may be a little damaged due to frequent usage. This method isn't always effective and can sometimes cause further damage.

Remote Key

It is possible to spend less on an alternative key if your car has a traditional key. They have a key shaft that is inserted into the ignition and turned to start the vehicle. You can find these keys at places like AutoZone or a locksmith and they don't need any special programming to work with your vehicle.

If you're driving a more modern vehicle, your key may include a transponder chip within it to help to prevent theft. The chips transmit an electronic signal from the key to a device in the ignition to ensure that only a genuine key is inserted and is able to start the engine. Keys can be upgraded to rolling keys which send a new signal each time they are used. This ensures that even if someone steals the key the car won't be able to start.

Key fobs are basically a remote control that allows you to unlock or lock your car, as well to set off the alarm or open the trunk, without having to physically insert it into the repair ignition lock cylinder. Key fobs are also more popular in cars built in the 1990s, since they're a convenient way to make your car more secure from theft and give you additional convenience.

You will have to pay more for need to replace a keyfob because it requires extra programming. Most dealers charge a fee to program a new key fob but you can save some money by following the owner's guide to reprogram the key yourself. The key fob is priced between $50-$100.

Switchblade Key

The switchblade car ignition switch repair key may sound like a bladed weapon to defend yourself in the parking lot, but it's actually an innovative key that folds into a fob. This kind of key is available from locksmiths, an auto dealer, or on the internet but it's more than traditional keys.

Key fobs are electronic devices that control the functions of keys and send an alert to your vehicle when it is within range. The computer or immobilizer in the car will be able to recognize the signal, and allow the engine to start. Transponder chips, used since 1995, are incorporated into the majority of modern vehicles and transmit a unique code that only your car can read. Professional locksmiths for cars can reprogram your key and chip if lost or damaged.

Simple, cheap fobs that don't have an integrated chip could be used to replace traditional keys. They are typically sold at auto parts stores and other retail outlets ranging between $25 and $100. The cost of a replacement key fob with a built-in chip can be as high as $500 or more, depending on the manufacturer and features offered by.

A key fob that has a switchblade can cost between $200 to $300, which covers the cost of new batteries and the programming. The components can usually be bought separately, so if the key fob itself isn't damaged, it's possible to replace the shank and blade. Some of these keys may include VATS-Keys or PASS Key circuit. These chips contain resistors that stop unauthorised use by sending different codes to the car's computer as well as an immobilizer when they are inserted into the ignition lock repair near me cylinder. This stops thieves from trying to take over your ignition cylinder and makes it more difficult for them to duplicate the key.

Transponder Key

If your car was manufactured in the last two decades, it's likely it has a transponder key. The chip inside these keys helps prevent vehicle theft by transmitting the car with a code when you insert it into the ignition. The car's computer examines the code and then starts the engine in the event that it matches. If you don't have a transponder key that works it will be impossible to start your car.

Be aware that car dealers will charge a higher price if you want to get a new transponder. They are usually the only people in town who can make the specific type of key that your vehicle requires. Locksmiths, on other hand can cut and program your new key at a a fraction of the cost.

Transponder keys are an important security measure that came into play when car thieves began using a technology called hot-wiring to steal vehicles in the 80s. General Motors began incorporating a tiny RFID chip inside its key fobs to combat this. The chip is able to communicate with the car and start it. This technology prevents car theft since it renders hot-wiring useless.

You may be noticing that the grooves on your transponder key are beginning to wear out. This is because the grooves shift tiny pins within the lock to a position that allows your car to start. You'll also notice that the key symbol on your dashboard doesn't appear when you insert the key into the ignition. If you're experiencing these problems, it is time to call an auto locksmith to change your keys.

Smart Key

Smart keys take technology one step further. Instead of a traditional key, this type of key has a computer chip that connects with your car, allowing you perform basic tasks such as unlocking the door and trunk and even starting the engine with the press of one button. Despite their ease of use they are more expensive than transponder keys that are traditional because of their integrated technology.

To work the smart keys, they are equipped with to function, they have LF (low frequency) transmitting antennas both inside and outside of the vehicle. These antennas are activated when you open the door or trunk handle. The LF signal travels through the body and doors to reach the inside electronics, which identify it as an authentic smart key. Once recognized, the car disables its immobilizer and starts the engine.

Smart keys could pose a safety risk. If you're far from your car ignition replacement near me there's a chance that someone can detect the low-frequency signal and start your vehicle by placing it in an ignition slot, according to How Stuff Works Electronics. Some manufacturers restrict the range of transmission to 10cm to reduce this risk.

The model year and type of vehicle you drive can also influence the cost of replacing a key. As a general rule, older models tend to have more expensive replacement keys than newer ones. Certain models may require the use of a keyless system connected to the fob to provide features such as remote locking and trunk access. Contact a Pop-A-Lock to get an estimate before you go to the dealer if you're worried about how much a replacement would cost. Our locksmiths are able provide a replacement for cheaper and provide superior service than a dealership.